Through July 7La Boutique Ephémère: are you a fashion nut? Then don't miss this special sales event, hosted by L'Espace Beaurepaire. Fashion creators will show their wares while hip DJ's set the mood. Entrance is free.

June 26- July 30The nation-wide summer sales last five weeks, with up to 70% off the current collections of clothing, shoes, and accessories, although almost every single other store joins in on the "soldes" frenzy. Do your reconnaissance in advance!

July 6Paris treasure hunt: both French and international visitors are invited to discover the "Paris of the Parisians". This unusual way to explore the capital city will lead contestants down untrodden paths and through secret passages. Roadbooks will be available in French and English. Many prizes to win! This event is free.

July 7Red Bull is sponsoring a soap-box car race at Saint-Cloud this July! The vehicles must be home-made and muscle-powered. The judges will consider speed as much as creativity of design in their decisions, and there are some wonderful prizes to win. This event is free for spectators.

July 13-14The night before Bastille Day is the traditional Bal des Pompiers, or Fireman's Ball, when fire stations in Paris is open to the public for live and DJ music, dancing, drinking, and generally having a grand old time for a good cause: you may meet a fireman or two around town selling raffle tickets for the balls, with proceeds going to charity. Some stations are also having a ball on the 14th, so two nights in a row if you're not out watching the fireworks. Find the list of stations throwing parties in Paris and the surrounding areas here. Check out the videos online to get an idea of the atmosphere after 2am!

July 13The Grand Palais is hosting an all-night music concert from midnight until 6am, Le Bal Pop, featuring top pop hits performed by Airplay, a 20-piece orchestra (it's a lot cooler than I'm making it sound here), tickets €15, VIP €150.

July 14"Liberty, Equality, Fraternity!" Nothing says Bastille Day like a philharmonic orchestra and fireworks by the Eiffel Tower. Come celebrate the French Republic with a picnic on the Champ de Mars. NOTE: No glass bottles allowed, there will be police checking.

July 18 - August 18L'été Defacto will bring some relaxation and entertainment to La Défense this summer, providing a change from this area's typical image as a business district. The event will consist of cultural conferences, afterwork cocktails, and art installations in the street. Whether you live at La Défense or are just visiting, you are invited to enjoy: L'été Defacto.

July 21Since 1975, the finish line for the Tour de France has been at the Arc de Triomphe on the Champs Elysées. Join the crowd of Parisians and tourists alike to see the winner of the race. Expected arrival time: 9:45 pm.

July 20 - August 18Paris Plages: sand, beach trees, volley balls and bikinis -- on the Seine! This year's edition of the Paris Plages will feature many fun activities.

Through August 11Paris Summer Festival: don't miss this amazing theatre and classical music series. Sponsored by the French Ministry of Culture and housed by many of Paris's finest performance spaces, this season promises many beautiful evenings. Ticket prices vary according to performance.

Through September 15Transport yourself to 1912 at the Titanic shipwreck exhibit. This collection of artifacts from the famous ship has been viewed by over 20 million people worldwide. It promises to spark the imagination and send shivers down the spine. Entry €12.90 to €15.90.

Through September 15Missing the beach this summer? Stop by Glazart to enjoy La Plage, a pleasant beach atmosphere + sand, all inside you favorite 19th arrondissement bar. Free entry and free music most days.

Through September 28Le Maxi Monster Music Show is not your typical music spectacle. This show invites you to discover a bizarre cabaret of gypsies, bearded women, strongmen, the macabre, the strange and the mystical. The theatre is located in Montmartre, and tickets start at € 20.